How to change Spotify download location

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To change the Spotify download location, open the Spotify application, navigate to Settings, and adjust the 'Offline storage location' under the 'Local Files' section. This allows you to specify a new folder where downloaded music will be stored.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing the Spotify download location, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Spotify application installed (version 1.1.0 or higher recommended)
  • •Sufficient permissions to modify application settings
  • •Access to the desired folder where downloads will be stored
  • •Backup existing downloaded files if necessary

Method 1: Changing Download Location via Spotify Settings

This method is the primary way to change the download location directly through the Spotify app settings.
  • •Step 1: Open the Spotify application on your device.
  • •Step 2: Click on your profile name in the top right corner, then select 'Settings' from the dropdown menu.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down to the 'Local Files' section and find 'Offline storage location'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Change' next to the current download location, navigate to your desired folder, and select it.
  • •Step 5: Verify the change by checking the new path displayed under 'Offline storage location'.
  • •Step 6: If the new location does not appear, restart the Spotify application.

For Windows 11

Follow these steps specifically for Windows 11 users:
  • •Step 1: Open Spotify and click on the three dots in the top left corner.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' from the menu.
  • •Step 3: Under 'Local Files', find 'Offline storage location' and click 'Change'.
  • •Step 4: Choose your new folder and confirm the selection.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users can follow these steps:
  • •Step 1: Launch Spotify and click on the down arrow next to your profile name.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Settings'.
  • •Step 3: Scroll to 'Local Files' and click 'Change' next to 'Offline storage location'.
  • •Step 4: Browse to the new folder and select it.

Method 2: Changing Download Location via File Explorer

This method is useful if you want to manually move downloaded files to a new location.
  • •Step 1: Open File Explorer and navigate to the current Spotify download location (usually C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Spotify\Storage).
  • •Step 2: Copy the downloaded files to your desired new location.
  • •Step 3: Open Spotify and go to Settings as described in Method 1.
  • •Step 4: Change the 'Offline storage location' to the new folder where you moved the files.
  • •Step 5: Restart Spotify to ensure it recognizes the new location.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing the download location, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Unable to change download location' - Solution: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to access the new folder.
  • •Issue: 'Downloaded files not appearing' - Fix: Check if the files were moved correctly and that Spotify is pointed to the correct location.
  • •Problem: 'Spotify crashes after changing location' - Workaround: Revert to the previous location and try again after restarting the application.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Spotify experience with these power user tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + P - Play/Pause the current track.
  • •Command line: Use the command 'spotify.exe --offline' to start Spotify in offline mode.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Show Local Files' in settings to access files stored on your device.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, always ensure your Spotify app is updated to the latest version to access new features and improvements.